Ep 12. Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La

In the remote forests of China's Yunnan province, a group of black-and-white snub-nosed monkeys live high in the trees, isolated from the world below. For years, scientists have been fascinated by these elusive primates, but gaining access to study them has proven difficult. That's where a team of intrepid photographers and conservationists come in.

In "Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La," season 33 episode 12 of Nature, we follow a group of dedicated individuals as they trek into the rugged terrain in search of the snub-nosed monkeys. Led by National Geographic photographer Tim Laman and primatologist Dr. Long Yongcheng, the team sets out to capture rare footage and data on the monkeys.

The episode explores the unique habitats that the monkeys call home, from the lush forests to the craggy cliffs high in the mountains. Along the way, we see the incredible feats that the photographers must undertake to capture their shots, including setting up complex camera traps and navigating treacherous terrain.

But it's not just the stunning visuals that make this episode so captivating. The team also delves into the intricacies of the monkeys' social structure and behavior. We learn about how the alpha males lead their troops and defend their territories, and see how the females care for their young.

Perhaps most fascinating of all, the team also uncovers a surprising tradition among the monkeys. Every winter, the primates leave their forest homes to visit a local hot springs, where they spend hours soaking in the warm waters. The reason for this behavior is still a mystery, but the team's footage sheds new light on this little-known aspect of the monkeys' lives.

Throughout the episode, we also see how the team members work closely with local conservationists and indigenous communities to protect the fragile ecosystem that the monkeys depend on. From building firebreaks to prevent forest fires to teaching schoolchildren about the value of conservation, the team is committed to ensuring that the monkeys continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

In the end, "Mystery Monkeys of Shangri-La" offers a window into a world that few humans ever get to see. It's a fascinating look at the lives of some of the most elusive primates on the planet, as well as a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural world for generations to come.